The Miller Center is a nonpartisan affiliate of the University of Virginia that specializes in presidential scholarship, public policy and political history and strives to apply the lessons of history to the nation’s most pressing contemporary governance challenges. more →

Welcome to the Miller Center

From presidents Carter, George H.W. Bush, Clinton, and George W. Bush.

Nancy Reagan

February 07, 1981

Source: National Archives

First Lady Nancy Reagan poses for her official portrait in the Red Room of the White House on February 7, 1981. Mrs. Reagan said it was her primary duty as First Lady “to help my husband.” Although she promoted many programs such as drug abuse awareness, Mrs. Reagan was a frequent target of criticism for her love of luxury and her perceived management of the President.